THE HUMANNESS OF REAL LOVE
Mark 2:13-22
Jesus had principles, but no hard-and-fast rules. He never wavered a jot on principle. But he was as pliable as love when it came to fitting into people’s needs. He met people where they were. He gave them just what they needed, forgiving sins, or giving bread for their hunger. With greatest patience and thoughtfulness he adapted himself so as to help and win. It’s the love-rule of service. He’s our Example.
STEADY! STEADY THERE!!
Matthew 3:13-17; Matthew 4:12-16
Jesus started in on the great task appointed him. It was uphill work from the start. There seemed no chance, humanly, of getting through. There was every, chance, humanly, of failing dismally. But he had no doubt of the Father’s plan; that was enough. Steadily, prayerfully, he began. The first step was clear. He took it, and took it heel and toe, fully and bravely. This is the way for us. He’s our Example.
HE’LL HELP US REACH IT
Philippians 2:1-11
Imitating is the commonest act of life. Everything depends on whom and what we imitate. An example, true and winsome —this is the need. Jesus was just this. In his simplicity, his unselfishness, his purity, his earnestness, his devotion to his Father, his sympathy for men, he is the Example. Then he’s more; he gives power to follow the Example. Keep your eye on Jesus.
THE “DO” CREED
1John 3:14-24
We really believe just as much as we do; the rest is religious talk. We’re saved by faith in Jesus. And the real, simple article of faith, in good working order, controls the habits and hand and purse. Most of our brothers of all the world today are hungry, actually; and yet hungrier for the Bread of life. And we have it. And we can give it. Are we? Or, are we keeping most for ourselves?
THE PIERCED HAND
John 6:27-39
Jesus is God giving us everything we need. His creative hand gives life itself, and food, clothing, shelter, loved ones, and home for enjoying life. His pierced hand gives a clean heart, an obedient spirit, bodily health, a, strong purpose, and glad service for our fellows. No one can live without bread. And no one lives really to the full without Jesus, taken into his daily life as truly as food is taken into his body.
